Cáncer colorrectal

Abstract

EpidemiologyColorectal cancer (CRC) is the most common malignancy in Spain and the third worldwide. Approximately 80% are sporadic, 20% exhibit familial clustering and 5% occur within a well-defined hereditary syndrome. PathogenyAlthough sometimes CRC originates from a previously healthy colonic mucosa, in most cases CRC arises from malignant transformation of an adenomatous polyp. DiagnosisScreening in average-risk populations has proven to decline mortality by 30-70% and to be cost-effective. Colonoscopy is the most sensitive and specific method but its limited acceptance and high cost have positioned immunological faecal occult blood testing as the initial procedure in screening programs. TreatmentSurgery remains the most effective treatment preceded by chemoradiotherapy in locally advanced rectal cancer. Chemotherapy has been shown to improve overall survival and quality of life in stages III and IV. In this review we update the most relevant molecular, epidemiological, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of this entity.